Thursday, March 29, 2012

Sambal Oelek (Red Chile Sauce)

Sambal Oelek is simply a ground up Indonesian chile sauce. Although it is readily available for purchase, I was not willing to swallow some of the ingredients that are in commercial offerings. So I decided to embark on a mission to make my own :D.

Once you prepare this easy and delicious sambal, you will find many uses for it as a condiment and as an ingredient in all kinds of recipes. It has become an indispensable one in our household! It is spooned on stir-fries, burgers, scrambles - in short wherever a touch spice or heat is needed!

I was sure that I needed fresh red chiles, but the only fresh ones that I was (and still am) able to acquire are Fresno (ripe Jalapeno) chiles. When I made the sambal, my family found that the sambal was not spicy enough! (true :D) so, I started adding habanero chiles to hike up the heat quotient.

Ingredients:

1 lb Fresh red Chiles
6-12 fresh habanero chiles (optional)
1/4 cup Apple Cider or White Vinegar
1 tsp Sea Salt

Method:

Wash the chiles well and drain. Pull or slice off the stems.

Combine chiles with the vinegar and salt and bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer covered for about 5 to 7 minutes. Let cool covered to room temperature.

Process the chiles with the cooking liquid using a blender or food processor until pureed but still slightly chunky; I like to leave a little texture.

Pour into a sterilized jar with tight-fitting lids and keep in the refrigerator or freeze for longer storage.

Serve with your favorite munchies. Enjoy!!

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